Millions in Baltimore Should Reduce Showers as Drinking-Water Levels Plunge
Summary
Millions of people in Baltimore and nearby counties are being asked to use less water because drought conditions have lowered reservoir levels. Officials want residents to take shorter showers and reduce outdoor water use to protect the drinking water supply during the hot summer season.Key Facts
- Baltimore’s water supply serves about 1.8 million people in Baltimore, Harford, Howard, and Carroll counties.
- The Baltimore City Department of Public Works issued voluntary water restrictions starting May 14.
- Reservoir levels are below normal: Prettyboy Reservoir is about 6 feet lower, and Liberty Reservoir is 2 feet lower than usual.
- Maryland is experiencing severe drought, with 95% of the state in severe drought conditions.
- Rainfall has been much less than normal since last fall, causing low river flow in the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers.
- Officials ask people to avoid watering lawns, washing cars, and cleaning outdoor surfaces.
- Simple actions like taking shorter showers and running full dishwasher or laundry loads are encouraged to save water.
- Drought and heat are expected to increase water use, making conservation important to avoid future mandatory restrictions.
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